And, he will stop at nothing to win, even if it means breaking the rules.

Logan Weston is a small-time trainer who has been knocked down more times than most.

He has a point to prove and, in true Australian spirit, is ready to give it everything he’s got.

Do they sound familiar?

If the answer is yes, you might want to grab a copy of Stephen Irwin’s debut novel Contention, which is established in Scone and Newmarket (England), and centres on the “sport of kings”.

“I’ll admit the story’s based around the local area, like the Upper Hunter, on people I know,” the Aberdeen author said.

“Now, the reviews have been coming back in; and are overwhelming with how residents are rating the read.

“Ninety per cent have raved about it, saying they can relate to it.

“That’s really started sales kicking along.

“I’ve self-published, investing more than $16,000 to date with the publishing and PR costs, for example.

“However, the locals are loving it – and trying to put faces to the characters.

“It’s a bit raunchy, with some swearing, but that’s life in the racing industry.

“I don’t hold anything back.”

Irwin has been involved with thoroughbred racing from an early age.

Born and raised on the land, his father (Les) was one of Australia’s best-known horsemen.

And, it’s where he learnt his trade in the industry. 

After leaving school at 14 to pursue his love of horses, Irwin eventually branched out on his own.

He became one of the most successful pin-hookers in the country – buying and selling young horses within a 10-month period for profit.

Now, Contention allows him to express everything he has learned about the racing and breeding industry.

“I listen to a lot of audio books while I’m welding,” Irwin said.

“A few of them centred on the racing industry; however I found them not very realistic.

“They don’t say it as it is.

“That’s not the case with this offering,” he added with a laugh.